Eerste versierde stellage met toneel: ontvangst van de vredelievende prins, 1577 1577 - 1578

This engraving, titled 'Eerste versierde stellage met toneel: ontvangst van de vredelievende prins, 1577,' was created by Antoni van Leest. It reflects the tumultuous period of the Dutch Revolt, when the Netherlands sought independence from Spanish rule. Consider the 'peaceful prince,' likely a symbolic figure of hope amidst conflict. The print depicts an encounter, laden with the desire for reconciliation. Note the figures, likely representing different social strata, and their gestures of welcome, which propose a unified desire for peace. The identity of this 'peaceful prince' opens up consideration of historical figures who were perceived as potential peacemakers or leaders during this era. The print invites reflection on the universal longing for peace amidst conflict. What does it mean to welcome a 'peaceful prince' in a time of war, and how does this image speak to our own hopes for peace today?